Final answer:
The nurse would anticipate a prescription for penicillin for a patient with bacterial pharyngitis, as it targets the underlying bacterial infection, unlike other medications that may only alleviate symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse caring for a patient admitted with a diagnosis of bacterial pharyngitis would anticipate that the patient will be ordered an antibiotic, such as penicillin, to treat the bacterial infection. While medications like Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Tylenol with codeine may help alleviate pain and discomfort, and Robitussin DM (a cough suppressant and expectorant) may help with coughing symptoms, they do not treat the underlying bacterial infection. Penicillin is a targeted treatment option for bacterial infections like pharyngitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, and its derivatives, such as amoxicillin, have been commonly prescribed for various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections. In cases like Barbara's pneumonia or Michael's meningitis, where penicillin or its derivatives were not effective, a different antibiotic may be necessary to resolve the infection.
To treat bacterial pharyngitis, the nurse would anticipate the patient being ordered Penicillin.